Young college savers make it to national final

Ben Aynsley

STUDENTS from East Durham College are celebrating after reaching the final of a national money management competition.

The team from the colege’s Apollo Studio Academy fought off competition from around England to make it to the final 10 of Lloyds Banking Group’s Money for Life Challenge.

I have been hugely impressed by the innovation and enthusiasm of all the teams who have taken part in the challenge this year.

David Rowsell, Money for Life

The group impressed judges with their Look Good for Less project, which raised awareness of the financial pressures students and parents face when planning for a school prom.

Linda Wright, senior personal coach at Apollo Studio Academy, said: “Our students have enjoyed taking part in the Money for Life project and we are delighted that Look Good for Less is taking part in the final this year.

“The team has devised an innovative money management project that will aim to reduce the pressure on families for their forthcoming school proms.

“We are thrilled our project, which included a fashion show, has impressed the judges.”

After being awarded a £500 grant from Money for Life, the group spent three months undertaking their project.

The students held a fashion show to demonstrate to an audience, including their families and fellow students, how they can dress well for their prom on a small budget.

They worked with Age UK Sunderland, who donated dresses for the show, while Pressed Prom and Bridal Durham also showcased their range of dresses, all modelled by students.

A designer dress was also raffled on the night, with all proceeds going to Age UK Sunderland.

Look Good for Less was selected from 340 entries across England to contest the People’s Prize final at an event at Stamford Bridge, home of Chelsea FC, on April 21.

David Rowsell, head of the Money for Life programme, said: “I have been hugely impressed by the innovation and enthusiasm of all the teams who have taken part in the challenge this year.

“It has been a tricky decision for our judges to decide which groups will make it to our national finals and I wish all teams the very best of luck.”

The winners of the People’s Prize will go on to the UK Grand Final at the London Film Museum in Covent Garden, on May 28.